Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad

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When it comes to creating a meal that is both satisfying and wholesome, Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad is a shining star. Combining tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta all coated in a creamy, Parmesan-infused sauce, this dish offers a comforting experience that caters to food lovers of all ages. Whether you’re planning a family dinner or a cozy meal for two, this recipe is versatile, delicious, and easy to prepare. Let’s dive into the magic of this one-pot wonder!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad is a perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness with a subtle crunch from fresh broccoli. The rich sauce clings to every piece of penne, while the tender chicken cubes ensure a protein-packed bite. Here are some reasons this dish will become a household favorite:

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour with minimal cleanup.
• Nutritious: Packed with protein, calcium, and fiber.
• Customizable: Easily adaptable with different vegetables, proteins, or seasonings.
• Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.

The Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients and why they’re essential for this dish:

For the Chicken and Pasta

• Penne Pasta (8 ounces): A classic choice for creamy dishes, penne holds the sauce beautifully. Substitute with rigatoni or farfalle if desired.
• Broccoli (2 cups, small florets): Adds a fresh, earthy flavor and a nutritional boost.
• Chicken Breasts (2, cooked and cubed): Provides tender, juicy protein. You can use leftover roasted chicken or even shredded rotisserie chicken.

For the Creamy Sauce

• Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Adds a subtle, fruity richness and prevents sticking.
• Small Onion (1, diced): Sweetens and deepens the flavor profile.
• Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Infuses the sauce with aromatic depth.
• Salt and Pepper (1 teaspoon each): Essential seasonings to bring out all the flavors.
• All-Purpose Flour (2 tablespoons): Thickens the sauce without overpowering.
• Whole Milk (2 cups): Creates a creamy base; low-fat milk can be used for a lighter dish.
• Parmesan Cheese (1 cup, grated): The star of the sauce, providing a nutty and salty finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta and Broccoli

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
• During the last 5 minutes of cooking, toss in the broccoli florets to blanch them. This keeps the broccoli tender yet slightly crunchy.
• Drain both the pasta and broccoli using a colander and set them aside.

2. Prepare the Sauce

• In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
• Add the diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and translucent.
• Stir in the minced garlic, salt, and black pepper, cooking for an additional minute until aromatic.

3. Thicken the Sauce

• Sprinkle the flour evenly over the onion and garlic mixture. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste.
• Gradually whisk in the whole milk, ensuring a smooth consistency. Continue stirring for 2-3 minutes as the sauce thickens to a velvety texture.

4. Add the Parmesan Cheese

• Lower the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Allow it to melt completely, creating a rich, creamy sauce.

5. Combine Everything

• Add the cooked pasta, broccoli, and diced chicken into the skillet with the sauce.
• Mix gently with a wooden spoon, ensuring every piece is coated with the luscious Parmesan sauce. Heat everything through for 2-3 minutes.

6. Serve and Garnish

• Transfer the dish to a serving bowl. Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Achieve Creaminess: For an ultra-rich sauce, use whole milk and freshly grated Parmesan. Pre-grated cheese may not melt as smoothly.
• Broccoli Texture: Blanching the broccoli with the pasta ensures it remains vibrant and slightly crunchy.
• Adjust the Consistency: If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of milk while reheating to restore its creaminess.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

• Pasta Options: Swap penne for fusilli, macaroni, or gluten-free pasta for dietary needs.
• Vegetables: Incorporate mushrooms, bell peppers, or peas for added color and flavor.
• Cheese Choices: Substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
• Protein Variations: Replace chicken with shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.

Serving Suggestions

This hearty Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad pairs beautifully with:

• Garlic Bread: Adds a crunchy contrast to the creamy pasta.
• Simple Green Salad: A refreshing side to balance the richness.
• White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the dish wonderfully.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm gently in the microwave or stovetop, adding a splash of milk to maintain the creamy consistency.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the sauce may separate upon thawing.

Why You’ll Keep Coming Back to This Recipe

Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad isn’t just a meal—it’s a comforting experience in a bowl. The tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta all enveloped in a creamy Parmesan sauce make for an irresistible combination. It’s quick to prepare, easy to customize, and sure to impress anyone lucky enough to try it.

So grab your pot, skillet, and ingredients, and let the aroma of this delightful dish fill your kitchen. Once you take your first bite, you’ll understand why this recipe is bound to become a staple in your cooking repertoire.